Westmeath made every yard to make a winning debut over fences in the beginners chase at Gowran Park.
Davy Russell soon put the disappointment of Rubi Light s unfortunate tumble in the feature behind him to guide the Gigginstown runner to victory.
Paul Nolan 's charge was sent off 4/5 favourite and always looked in control in the 2m2f contest. Byerley Bear tried to throw down a challenge in the straight but the front-runner was always just pulling out enough on the run-in to see off that rival by a length-and-a-half.
The winner was tried in Grade 1 company over hurdles last season and has always been well regarded by his trainer.
"He did it well and hopefully can go to a higher level over fences now," said Nolan. "He should improve for better ground as well.
"He was a bit disappointing over hurdles and didn't live up to out expectations."
Gary Carson
